ARTLET GRADUATES should help “humanize” the technology-driven world and strive to improve the plight of marginalized sectors, a top university official said.
Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Cheryl Peralta said graduates should serve the marginalized sectors with their innovative ideas and desire “to understand the evolving needs of our people and our society.”
“As you exit the portals of our beloved University and pursue your respective careers, may you help humanize our technology-driven world. May you be analytical and creative thinkers who seek to find solutions to the prevailing concerns of society,” Peralta said during the
Faculty of Arts and Letters’ virtual Solemn Investiture for batches 2020 and 2021 last Friday.
While the event was held virtually, it is still “blessed,” as it marks “a very significant milestone” in the lives of the graduates, the academic affairs chief said.
“While this moment may be devoid of the physical celebrations and the excitement of face-to-face hugs, handshakes, and congratulatory messages, your achievements at this point are equal, if not of greater value given the journey you’ve been through amidst the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Peralta.
AB Dean Prof. Marilu Madrunio said graduates must not only see themselves as successful graduates, but also as Thomasians who practice values and hard work in the things that they do.
In her address of thanks, batch 2020 valedictorian Marjon Angela Cano said the Philippines would be more progressive if its education system has more emphasis on social sciences, and media studies and requires a brief study of the constitution.
“It is only by then that the masses will finally understand why we are against the Anti-Terrorism Law and why we uphold the protection of our civil liberties and fundamental rights,” she said.
Batch 2021 Valedictorian Ethan Vaughn Ong urged his fellow graduates to be optimistic as they await “wonderful joys” ahead.
“I also urge you to continue to your grit in the unassuming tasks of a liberal arts student, that one day in due time you will become the luminaries in your respective fields,” Ong added.
Batch 2020 Salutatorian Josefina Virginia Tamayo and Batch 2021 Salutatorian Zharlaine Wang delivered the addresses of petitions on behalf of their respective batchmates. The graduates were also inducted into the Faculty of Arts and Letters Alumni Association by Philets and Artlets Alumni Association, Inc. president Henry Tenedero.
A total of 153 Artlets from batch 2021 were conferred degrees during the ceremony. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the graduates were unable to have a face-to-face send-off as mass gatherings are still not allowed under health and safety protocols. F ARTHUR N. APOSTOL
